Spirituality
Spiritual Development at Crowton
“…with God, all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
The Church of England’s Vision for Education states a core desire that children will experience life in all its fullness (John 10:10). The worth of each student impels us to work to fulfil their God-given potential, whatever the religious or other tradition with which they or their family identify. All pupils at Crowton are encouraged to stretch themselves spiritually, morally, intellectually, imaginatively and actively, and to aspire to be well-educated to prepare for the opportunities and responsibilities of adult life, enabling them to make a positive contribution to society.
We define Spirituality as an ongoing, reflective journey. It is something that teaches us about questioning, understanding and relationships.Spirituality is primarily about relationships. It is about understanding the internal relationship with ourselves, and external relationships with one other and from a Christian perspective with God.” Spiritual Development: Interpretations of Spiritual Development in the Classroom (Church of England, 2019)
Spirituality enables our children to be happy; flourish and succeed and live life in all its fullness. Children are provided with opportunities to develop the four elements of spirituality during half termly spiritual afternoons and across the curriculum. These elements are:
Self
Awareness of feelings; ability to reflect and express
Awareness of our uniqueness; happiness with who we are
Gratitude for the things we have and the person we are. Exploration of personal faith
Development of imagination and creativity
Others
Empathy and understanding; respect, tolerance
To love and be loved (loving your neighbour)
Making a difference; duty
World
Developing a sense of awe and wonder
Enjoying the miracles of everyday life
Taking time for what really matters
Appreciating beauty in art, music, nature
Beyond
Encountering/experiencing God (having a sense of what lies beyond the material/ physical)
Ability to formulate and discuss the ‘Big Questions’ (e.g. about life, death, suffering, nature of God)
Opportunities for prayer, connecting with God
Making sense of the world
Spiritual Development occurs in many ways, both planned and unplanned. We aim to ensure that children:
▪ Have regular times in the day for quiet and reflection. This might be listening to a story, lighting a candle in worship, engaging in reflection activities in spaces around school.
▪ Will be provided with many opportunities for creativity and imagination.
▪ Will be provided with purposeful and regular opportunities for prayer. This can take many forms, but should include being thankful and allow the children an opportunity to open themselves up to God.
▪ Will have regular opportunities to explore, express and share feelings.
▪ Will see positive relationships role modelled around school. The importance of relationships will be reaffirmed to them. This will include clear exploration of how we talk to and relate to each other.
▪ Have opportunities to express awe and wonder, appreciate beauty in all its forms and appreciate connections and unity in the world.
▪ Will be encouraged to reflect on mistakes and say sorry, where appropriate.
▪ Will be encouraged to show perseverance, respect and trust and express these in practical ways.
▪ Have opportunities to explore ‘Big Questions’, particularly through RE learning.
Children are encouraged to reflect on their own development using the “Windows, Mirrors and Doors” framework. Opportunities for spiritual development are established through the following task styles:
